quintessential

adjective

ˌkwin-tə-ˈsen(t)-shəl How to pronounce quintessential (audio)
Definition of quintessentialnext
as in classic
constituting, serving as, or worthy of being a pattern to be imitated Helen of Troy was supposedly the quintessential beauty of the ancient world

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of quintessential Born in Brooklyn to Italian immigrant parents and raised in the Bronx on March 30, 1933, Appignani embodied the quintessential American success story. — Sergio R. Bustos, Miami Herald, 15 Oct. 2026 The perfumer who created it, Olivia Giacobetti, is also the nose behind Diptyque’s Philosykos, a scent regularly name-checked as the quintessential fig perfume. — April Long, Allure, 12 Oct. 2026 As things happen, Parker reports, playing Eddie in Fool for Love led to the agent Gene Parseghian sending Willis to audition for a part in that quintessential ’80s film starring Rosanna Arquette and Madonna, Desperately Seeking Susan. — Sam Kashner, Vanity Fair, 12 Oct. 2026 The property’s location is quintessential to the outdoor activities that the Omni offers. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for quintessential
Recent Examples of Synonyms for quintessential
  1. classic
  2. exemplary
  3. perfect
  4. archetypal
  5. definitive
  6. excellent
Adjective
  • The collection follows a very classic autumnal color palette, with speckles of burgundy, brown, khaki, and deep greens.
    — Bianca Kratky, Glamour, 23 Oct. 2026
  • Rooms Standard rooms are classic in look and feel with dark wood furniture and neutral fabrics, yet appointed with modern embellishments such as universal outlets and bedside light controls.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Oct. 2026
Definition of classic
Adjective
  • Setting the standard for luxury with exemplary service and culinary offerings, all at the heart of Santa Fe’s rich cultural center.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Oct. 2026
  • In 2023, Leslie Van Houten was granted parole and released after holding what many described as an exemplary record for decades behind bars.
    — Richard Winton, Los Angeles Times, 7 Oct. 2026
Definition of exemplary
Adjective
  • The loss spelled the end of the Chiefs’ perfect 5-0 start to the season.
    — Jeff Rosen, Kansas City Star, 26 Oct. 2026
  • Sheet cake recipes are the easiest way to feed dessert to a crowd, meaning this recipe is perfect for the holidays.
    — Mary Shannon Wells, Southern Living, 25 Oct. 2026
Definition of perfect
Adjective
  • The couple’s relationship appears to be an archetypal folie a deux, or madness of two.
    — Gary Baum, HollywoodReporter, 19 Oct. 2026
  • The clubhouse looks more Soho House than an archetypal northern non-League clubhouse.
    — Andy Mitten, New York Times, 3 Oct. 2026
Definition of archetypal
Adjective
  • And definitive explanations for Bonfire and Dynamite aren’t forthcoming.
    — Robin George Andrews, Scientific American, 20 Oct. 2026
  • The oil-rich province of Alberta has rejected the pathway to secession and will remain part of Canada, landing a definitive blow to a fringe but loud campaign which sought support from the US.
    — Max Saltman, CNN Money, 20 Oct. 2026
Definition of definitive
Adjective
  • Williams aims to help build a county government that works for everyday people by lowering the cost of living, delivering excellent county services and protecting fundamental rights.
    — Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 18 Oct. 2026
  • Nikko Remigio’s reputation as a return man isn’t splashy plays, but rather excellent ball security.
    — Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 18 Oct. 2026
Definition of excellent

Browse Nearby Words

quintessences
quintessential
quintet
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Cite this Entry

“Quintessential.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/quintessential. Accessed 26 Oct. 2026.

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